Creating your own custom candle while sipping on some wine and indulging in snacks sounds like a dream. But at Wax + Wine, it becomes a reality.
The brand first opened in the city with the aim to bring an activity that was one-of-a-kind for all ages.
“Wax + Wine is all about creating a fun and unique experience with friends and family, based around candle making, and if you’re in the mood, some wine,” says Wax + Wine co-founder Jordan Beletz, who started the company with his father, Alan. “[While here,] you get to create your own custom candle in a beautiful atmosphere.”
And that atmosphere has transformed over the venue’s years in business. Recently, W + W opened a newer and much larger space at 144 North 2nd Street in Old City. The two-level spot spans 3,000 square feet, and a lot went into creating the candle bar’s interior design. Additionally, to add to the updates, Wax + Wine now has two scent cellars with over 50 fragrances for blending as well.
“We wanted to take Wax + Wine to the next level,” continues Beletz. “We wanted a larger space to host larger group events and opportunities to partner with other local businesses. Our new location offers a wine shop, two floors, semi, and private party rooms and two scent cellars.”
It all comes back to the brand’s initial vision, but now, on a much larger scale. The idea first came to Beletz after another popular DIY drink experience, a paint-and-sip night. Then in 2017, the concept opened its doors.
“I loved the idea of a night out that was different than the norm, but after my visit, I ended up just putting my painting in a closet,” he explains. “Because of that, I wanted to create an experimental activity with a product that customers would continue to use, long after the night is done.”
At Wax + Wine’s new location, Philadelphians have a few different options. BYO drinks and light snacks are always a choice and soon, the space will be partnering with local restaurants for more offerings. For those looking to travel light however, the 2nd Pour Wine Shop is stocked with affordably priced bottles, ranging from $14 -$24.
Philadelphians can also just pick up a bottle to go or grab a glass of vino to sip on from the shop even if they aren’t planning on making candles. This particular facet of the new location came from a partnership with Allegro Winery.
“Allegro is a local Pennsylvania winery that we have partnered with to sell their wine, along with Pinnacle Ridge Winery, which is under the same ownership, at our 2nd Pour Wine Shop,” says Beletz. “They offer a variety of great and affordable wines, and you can purchase a bottle to use during your candle-making experience, grab a glass in our seating area, or feel free to stop in and just a buy a bottle to go. We want this location to be accessible to the entire neighborhood. Walk-ins are always welcome.”
As a release states, the new location includes the same candle making experience that Philadelphians know and love, with a heavy focus on experiential design, along with opportunities for private and large events. Semi-private events range from 11 to 20 guests and the private upper-level event floor can host up to 40 guests. The entire venue can be bought out for up to 70 guests as well.
The release also mentions that all events come with a dedicated team of staffers to help you through the process and ensure you have a memorable experience. Additionally, food can be brought in for events and there is a limited kitchen on-site for catering.
“Our personal staff and our individualized experience (we are not a workshop), and our Scent Cellars make us special and unique,” finishes Beletz. “Picking out your scents is just as fun as making the actual candles and our experts are always there to guide you along the way. You really must come in and experience it for yourself to find out what we’re talking about.”
To find out more information and pricing, visit waxandwine.com. For reservations, visit waxandwine.com/bookeo. Guests are asked to arrive 10 minutes early and to bring a photo ID.
